Lumbar muscle exercise system and method

ABSTRACT

A lumbar muscle exercise system comprises a first member which supports the lower pelvic portion of a user. The user is leaning against the first member. A second adjoining member supports the feet of the user away from the first member. The lower limbs of the user are held substantially straight. A pelvic restraint prevents the upper pelvic portion from moving toward the first support member while the lower pelvic portion is firmly pressed into the first support member. The leaning user extends the torso away from the feet against gravity as part of a targeted lumbar muscle exercise routine. At least one gauge indicates undesirable movement of the lower pelvic portion relative to the first support member while the user performs the lumbar muscle exercise routine.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/622,988, filed on Oct. 29, 2004, which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

Portions of the disclosure of this patent document may contain material that is subject to copyright and/or mask work protection. The copyright and/or mask work owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright and/or mask work rights whatsoever.

BACKGROUND

In recent years, physicians and fitness professionals have discovered that many back problems are related to the spinal extensor (lumbar) muscles being tight and weak. The spinal extensor muscles generally reduce translational stress to the intervertebral segments during activity and balance shear stress to the intervertebral segments.

It has also been discovered that if the lumbar muscles are properly exercised to become stronger, a lot of back pain diminishes or goes away entirely. To properly stimulate the lumbar muscles with exercise, these muscles must be bending the spine backwards against resistance with the gluteus and hamstring muscles not moving the pelvis relative to the thighs at the same time. If the spine is bending, and at the same time, the hips are moving, then the lumbar muscles, and the gluteus and hamstring muscles are all working together. In such case, the lumbar muscles will not be optimally stimulated, and subsequently optimally strengthened as part of an exercise routine.

A properly performed lumbar muscle exercise routine will be of benefit to anybody who wants to avoid or improve lower back problems, anyone who wants to do their bit to prevent injury to this critical area, anybody who hopes to enjoy a physically active life, as well as those in sedentary jobs who want to remain functional in their lumbar region, i.e. most people. A number of known exercises do not effectively strengthen the lower back muscles because such exercises normally do not lock the hip joints. Sophisticated clinical machines on the market are capable of effectively targeting the lumbar muscle group. However, such machines require trained operation and are out of reach to the average user who is using the local gym. Local gyms are normally not equipped with such complex and expensive exercise machines.

SUMMARY

Exemplary embodiments disclosed herein are generally directed to a lumbar muscle exercise system.

In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the lumbar muscle exercise system comprises a first member adapted to support the lower pelvic portion of a user leaning against the first member, and a second adjoining member adapted to support the feet of the user away from the first member. The lower limbs of the user are held substantially straight. The muscle exercise system also comprises means for preventing the upper pelvic portion of the user from moving toward the first member while the lower pelvic portion is firmly pressed into the first member. The preventing means allows the leaning user to extend the torso away from the feet against gravity as part of a targeted lumbar muscle exercise routine.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the lumbar muscle exercise system comprises a first member adapted to support the lower pelvic portion of a user leaning against the first member, and a second adjoining member adapted to support the feet of the user away from the first member. The lower limbs of the user are held substantially straight. The muscle exercise system also comprises means for preventing the upper pelvic portion of the user from moving toward the first member while the lower pelvic portion is firmly pressed into the first member. The preventing means allows the leaning user to extend the torso away from the feet against gravity as part of a targeted lumbar muscle exercise routine. The muscle exercise system further comprises means for indicating undesirable movement of the lower pelvic portion relative to the first member while the user performs the lumbar muscle exercise routine.

Exemplary embodiments disclosed herein are also generally directed to a lumbar muscle exercise method.

In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the lumbar muscle exercise method comprises the steps of:

providing a first member adapted to support the lower pelvic portion of a user leaning against the first member;

providing a second adjoining member adapted to support the feet of the user away from the first member with the lower limbs of the user being held substantially straight; and

preventing the upper pelvic portion of the user from moving toward the first member while the lower pelvic portion is firmly pressed into the first member to allow the leaning user to extend the torso away from the feet against gravity as part of a targeted lumbar muscle exercise routine.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the lumbar muscle exercise method comprises the steps of:

providing a first member adapted to support the lower pelvic portion of a user leaning against the first member;

providing a second adjoining member adapted to support the feet of the user away from the first member with the lower limbs of the user being held substantially straight;

preventing the upper pelvic portion of the user from moving toward the first member while the lower pelvic portion is firmly pressed into the first member to allow the leaning user to extend the torso away from the feet against gravity as part of a targeted lumbar muscle exercise routine; and

indicating undesirable movement of the lower pelvic portion relative to the first member while performing the lumbar muscle exercise routine.

These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent from a review of the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention is generally shown by way of reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a pelvic movement restraint of a lumbar muscle exercise system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of the pelvic movement restraint of FIG. 1 being equipped with a removable grip cover in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a side perspective view of the pelvic movement restraint of FIG. 2 being adapted to store pelvic movement gauges in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 4 is an end view of the pelvic movement restraint of FIG. 3 with the pelvic movement gauges stored therein;

FIG. 5 is an end view of the pelvic movement restraint of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 a is a top perspective view of a pelvic movement gauge of the muscle exercise system of the present invention;

FIG. 6 b is a bottom perspective view of a pelvic movement gauge of the muscle exercise system of the present invention;

FIG. 7 a is a schematic representation of a lumbar muscle exercise system being used as part of an exercise routine in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 7 b is a side perspective view of the lumbar muscle exercise system of FIGS. 1-3 being used as part of an exercise routine in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8 a is a schematic rear view of a user's skeleton;

FIG. 8 b is an exploded partial rear view of the lumbar spine, pelvis, hip joints and femurs of the user's skeleton of FIG. 8 a;

FIG. 8 c is an exploded partial lateral view of the lumbar spine, pelvis, hip joints and femurs of the user's skeleton of FIG. 8 a;

FIG. 9 is a schematic rear view of various muscle groups associated with the user's skeleton of FIG. 8 a;

FIGS. 10 a-10 c schematically illustrate a series of steps performed by an individual in preparation for using the lumbar muscle exercise system of the present invention;

FIGS. 11 a-11 d schematically illustrate a series of steps performed by an individual as part of a lumbar muscle exercise routine in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a schematic view of an individual using properly the lumbar muscle exercise system of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a schematic view of an individual using improperly the lumbar muscle exercise system of the present invention;

FIGS. 14 a-14 c schematically illustrate an individual leaning against a vertical transparent wall and using pelvic movement gauges in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 15 a-15 b schematically illustrate an individual using the lumbar muscle exercise system of the present invention in conjunction with added resistance;

FIGS. 16 a-16 h schematically depict a simplified physical model for use in understanding the general principles of the present invention; and

FIGS. 17-26 generally show in perspective various alternative pelvic movement restraints for use in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of exemplary embodiments and is not intended to represent the only forms in which the exemplary embodiments may be constructed and/or utilized. The description sets forth the functions and the sequence of steps for constructing and operating the exemplary embodiments in connection with the illustrated embodiments. However, it is to be understood that the same or equivalent functions and sequences may be accomplished by different embodiments that are also intended to be encompassed within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to an exercise system designed to target and strengthen the lumbar muscles of a user, as generally shown in FIGS. 1-26. Additional embodiments, features and/or advantages of the invention will become apparent from the ensuing description or may be learned by practicing the invention. In the figures, the drawings are not to scale with like numerals referring to like features throughout both the drawings and the description.

FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a pelvic movement restraint 20 of a lumbar muscle exercise system 22 (FIG. 3) in accordance with the present invention. In one exemplary embodiment, pelvic movement restraint 20 has a solid generally bullet-shaped body made of lightweight rigid material such as foam and the like. Alternatively, the pelvic movement restraint of the present invention may have a substantially tubular body that is closed at each end and filled with air, as generally shown in FIG. 26. In other exemplary embodiments, the pelvic movement restraint may have alternative shapes, as generally depicted in reference to FIGS. 17-25, and/or be constructed from different material(s). Other suitable variations in shape and material(s) may be utilized for the pelvic movement restraint of the present invention, as needed.

Pelvic movement restraint 20 may be provided with a removable grip cover 24, as generally depicted in FIG. 2. Grip cover 24 may be constructed from a strip of relatively non-slip textured soft resilient material such as synthetic rubber or the like. The soft resilient strip may be rolled onto the exterior surface of pelvic movement restraint 20 and secured thereon with adhesive or the like. Alternatively, grip cover 24 may be integrally formed on the exterior surface of pelvic movement restraint 20. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2, removable grip cover 24 extends over a substantial portion of the exterior surface of pelvic movement restraint 20. Other variations on grip cover surface coverage of pelvic movement restraint 20 may be utilized, as needed.

One end of pelvic movement restraint 20 is cut away internally to a certain extent to create a cavity 26 (FIG. 3). The interior surface of cavity 26 includes a generally X-shaped body cut 27 (FIG. 5) which is adapted to receive a pair of pelvic movement gauges 28, 30 (FIGS. 3-4, 6 a-6 b) in accordance with the present invention. Pelvic movement gauges 28, 30 may be completely inserted within the body of pelvic restraint 20 (via body cut 27) for storage (FIG. 4) whenever pelvic restraint 20 is not being used in a lumbar muscle strengthening exercise routine. Each pelvic movement gauge (28, 30) is shaped somewhat like a glider plane that is missing its wings (FIGS. 6 a-6 b). Each pelvic movement gauge (28, 30) may be easily constructed from a generally flat plastic strip or the like. Other shape and material configurations may be used, as needed.

FIG. 7 a is a schematic representation of a lumbar muscle exercise system being used in accordance with the present invention. Specifically, a first member 32 firmly supports lower pelvic portion 34 of a user 36 leaning against first member 32. A second adjoining member 38 firmly supports feet 40 of user 36 away from first support member 32 with the user's lower limbs 42 being held substantially straight. A pelvic movement restraint 44, of the type generally described hereinabove, is nestled between first support member 32 and upper pelvic portion 46 of user 36 effectively locking hip joint 48. Pelvis 50 incorporates the socket portion of hip joint 48 for each lower limb of user 36.

A person skilled in the art would readily appreciate that a locked hip joint 48 would prevent pelvis 50 from rotating back toward first support member 32 as long as lower pelvic portion 34 remains firmly pressed into first support member 32. In one embodiment, first and second support members 32, 38 may be implemented as the wall and floor of a room, respectively, with user 36 leaning back against the wall, as generally illustrated in reference to FIG. 7 a. Other suitable implementations of first and second support members 32, 38 may be used, as needed.

Hip joint 48 is the ball-and-socket joint comprising the articulation between femur 49 (FIGS. 7 a, 8 a-8 c) and the hip bone of user 36. The hip bone is the large flaring bone that makes a lateral half of pelvis 50 (FIG. 7 a) of user 36. The hip bone is composed of ilium 52 (FIGS. 8 b-8 c), ischium 54 (FIGS. 8 b-8 c) and pubis (not shown) of user 36. These bones are consolidated into one bone in the adult which is also known as the pelvic or innominate bone.

For purposes of describing the general principles of the present invention, pelvis 50 (FIG. 8 a) is illustrated and described herein as comprising upper pelvic portion 46 (FIG. 8 b) and lower pelvic portion 34 (FIG. 8 b). Upper pelvic portion 46 includes ilium 52 and sacrum 51, as schematically depicted in FIG. 8 b. The sacrum consists of five vertebrae fused together. It articulates on each side with the ilium bones forming the sacrolitic joints. Sacrum 51 is connected to the lumbar portion of spine 53 (FIG. 8 a) of user 36, as schematically shown in FIGS. 8 b-8 c. Lower pelvic portion 34 includes ischium or so-called “sit” bones 54 (FIGS. 8 a-8 c).

To strengthen his/her lumbar muscles 35 (FIG. 9), user 36 may exercise the same by extending spine 53 (FIGS. 8 b-8 c) backwards (toward first support member 32) against resistance, such as gravity, without the gluteus and hamstring muscles 37, 39 (FIG. 9) helping out. The gluteus muscles comprise the three large muscles (gluteus maximus, gluteus medius and gluteus minimus) of each buttock that extend, abduct and rotate the thigh. The hamstring muscles act across both the hip and knee joints producing extension and flexion, respectively. The medial hamstring contributes to medial rotation of the leg at the flexed knee joint, while the lateral hamstring contributes to lateral rotation.

The gluteus and hamstring muscles 37, 39 (FIG. 9) pull pelvis 50 (FIG. 7 a) back around the top of the thighs at the hip joints 48 (FIG. 7 a), such as when user 36 stands up from leaning forwards. The gluteus and hamstring muscles 37, 39 (FIG. 9) do not bend spine 53 (FIG. 8 b) of user 36 (FIG. 7 a). Lumbar muscles 35 (FIG. 9) can extend spine 53 backwards. However, for the most part, lumbar muscles 35 just hold the user's torso 41 (FIG. 8 a) steady while the gluteus and hamstring muscles 37, 39 (FIG. 9) pull pelvis 50 (FIG. 7 a) up around the hip joints 48 (FIG. 7 a). Since lumbar muscles 35 are holding torso 41 (FIG. 8 a) generally straight, the gluteus and hamstring muscles 37, 39 are lifting the entire torso 41 upwards around the hip joints 48 by pulling on pelvis 50. To properly stimulate lumbar muscles 35 (FIG. 9) with exercise, the lumbar muscles should be extending spine 53 backwards (against gravity) with the gluteus and hamstring muscles 37, 39 not moving pelvis 50 (FIG. 7 a) at the same time. This type of exercise will generally not allow the user to move very far. To be effectively strengthened, lumbar muscles 35 should be exercised in isolation, i.e. user 36 has to lock his/her hip joints 48 (FIG. 7 a).

The nestled pelvic movement restraint (44) allows torso extension against gravity from a first position in which the torso of user 36 is disposed at a substantially obtuse angle α relative to first support member 32 to a second position in which the torso is disposed at a substantially acute angle β relative to first support member 32, as generally illustrated in FIG. 7 a. The acute and obtuse angles α, β are generally defined above the hip level of the user (FIG. 7 a).

FIG. 7 b is a side perspective view of lumbar muscle exercise system 22 (FIG. 3) being used in a room setting in accordance with the present invention. Specifically, a vertical wall 60 firmly supports lower pelvic portion 62 of a user 64, while a floor 66 firmly supports feet 68 of user 64 with the user's lower limbs 70 being held substantially straight. Pelvic movement restraint 20 (FIG. 1) with resilient grip cover 24 (FIG. 2) is shown nestled between vertical wall 60 and upper pelvic portion 72 of user 64 so as to lock the user's hip joint (not shown). Pelvic movement gauge 28 (FIG. 6 a) is operatively sandwiched between lower pelvic portion (“sit bones”) 62 of user 64 and wall 60 in accordance with the general principles of the present invention, as generally depicted in FIG. 7 b.

FIGS. 10 a-10 c schematically illustrate a series of steps performed by an individual in preparation for using lumbar muscle exercise system 22 in accordance with the general principles of the present invention. The first step may involve a user 80 standing with his back against a vertical support member 82, such as a wall or the like, as schematically depicted in FIG. 10 a. The next steps may involve user 80 stepping forward, and then leaning back against vertical support member 82 with his feet 84 a comfortable width apart and lower limbs 86 held as straight as comfortable and firm, as schematically shown in FIG. 10 b. Care should be taken to ensure that feet 84 do not slide on horizontal support member 88, such as the floor of a room or the like. Care should also be taken to prevent vertical and/or horizontal support members 82, 88, respectively, from moving when user 80 utilizes the same for support. For example, user 80 should not lean on a door which opens away from him.

The user's buttocks 90 (FIG. 10 b) should be resting on vertical support member 82 at all times. Thereafter, user 80 rotates his pelvis forward as far as anatomically possible while keeping lower limbs 86 firm. As schematically illustrated in FIG. 10 c, user 80 may use his hands 92 to push back against vertical support member (wall) 82, as needed. User 80 should be able to feel his ischium (“sit” bones) pressing against vertical support member (wall) 82. Ischium or “sit” bones are schematically shown, for example, in reference to FIGS. 8 a-8 c under reference numeral 54. These bony bumps are generally pointed straight down so that user 80 may need to lean forwards (away from vertical support member 82) as far as anatomically possible to make the “sit” bones face backwards, respectively. User 80 may need to bend his knees a bit, starting with buttocks 90 (FIG. 10 c) being a little lower down wall 82 so that user 80 can lift buttocks 90 up out of the way of his “sit” bones since the “sit” bones are disposed anatomically lower than the buttocks.

FIG. 11 a schematically shows a user 100 pressing his ischium or “sit” bones against vertical support member (wall) 102 with a pelvic movement restraint 104 (which is of the type generally shown and described hereinabove in reference to FIGS. 1-6 b) disposed nearby on an adjoining horizontal support member (floor) 106. In FIG. 11 b, user 100 has rolled pelvic movement restraint 104 down his sacrum nestling it into place to make as much contact as possible with both the sacrum and wall 102 without in any way moving buttocks 103 away from wall 102. This is to prevent the user's pelvis from rotating backwards (toward wall 102) during exercise.

In FIG. 11 c, user 100 has inserted pelvic movement gauges 108 (which are of the type generally shown and described hereinabove in reference to FIGS. 3-4, 6 a-6 b) between his “sit” bones and wall 102. Insertion of pelvic movement gauges 108 against a vertical transparent wall 101 is schematically shown in FIG. 14 a. Each pelvic movement gauge is disposed such that it sticks out to a certain extent sideways with user 100 firmly pressing the same against wall 102 via his “sit” bones.

In FIG. 11 d, user 100 has extended his torso 112 upward (away from feet 122) as far as anatomically possible against gravity G, as generally shown by directional arrow 105, with pelvic movement gauges 108 being firmly held in place against wall 102. In FIG. 11 c, torso 112 is shown flexed in the opposite direction (toward feet 122) as far as anatomically possible, as generally shown by directional arrow 107, with pelvic movement gauges 108 being firmly held in place against wall 102.

The upward torso extension and downward torso flexion of FIGS. 11 d-11 c, respectively, may be repeated as part of an exercise routine to strengthen the lumbar muscles of user 100. In one exemplary lumbar muscle exercise routine, user 100 moves slowly from position A (FIG. 11 c) to position B (FIG. 11 d), back to position A, and again to position B smoothly and without stopping until no further movement (torso extension/flexion) is possible, or until user 100 feels some discomfort. Normal physical discomfort associated with exercises of such kind, and an almost uncontrollable urge to discontinue while movement is still possible is to be expected and ignored. Generally, it should take no less than eight (8) seconds for an average user to move from position A (FIG. 11 c) to position B (FIG. 11 d), hold for a moment, and then move back to position A again. No other pauses should be taken.

Movement (torso extension/flexion) should continue at a relatively slow and steady pace, pausing only in the top (B) position to ensure full control, until user 100 is unable to continue due to muscular fatigue of the lumbar muscles. The entire routine should take between one (1) to two (2) minutes in most cases, but could be sooner or longer in duration depending on individual user(s). It is important not to pause in order to perform another repetition, but to continue slowly, and then discontinue the exercise when movement (torso extension/flexion) slows down to a stop. The angular range of motion (torso extension/flexion) varies with users. For the average user, the angular range of motion is estimated to be approximately 72° (angle α-angle β), as schematically depicted in FIG. 7 a.

It is also important to keep the legs still and slightly spread throughout the exercise routine, and to keep buttocks 103 firmly pushed backwards into wall 102, as schematically depicted in FIG. 12, to prevent pelvic movement gauges 108 (FIGS. 11 c-11 d) from sliding down wall 102. Pelvic movement gauges 108 will remain in place only if the user's buttocks 103 (FIG. 11 c) do not start to lift away from wall 102 even slightly. Otherwise, one or both pelvic movement gauges 108 may move relative to wall 102 and/or fall down on floor 106 in the manner generally indicated in FIG. 13. Any observed movement of gauges 108 is a clear sign to user 100 that his pelvis has rotated relative to the hip joints. Such pelvic rotation should be avoided to allow for correct (targeted) exercise of the user's lumbar muscles.

Once in position A (FIG. 11 c), user 100 may practice extending torso 112 upward (away from feet 122) as far as anatomically possible before one or both pelvic movement gauges 108 slide(s) down and then fall(s). User 100 should get used to the feeling of pushing his “sit” bones back into gauges 108. User 100 should also avoid at all costs pushing back into pelvic movement restraint 104 instead. User 100 should push into floor 106 through the front of his feet, not his heels. The base of the big toes would be an acceptable spot to focus on pushing through. If done correctly, pelvic movement gauges 108 will remain in place letting the user know that he is exercising properly his lumbar muscles.

In general, if legs 120 of user 100 remain firm and do not move, pelvic movement restraint 104 remains stable in its adherence to both the user's sacrum and wall 102 without rolling up and down, feet 122 do not move, wall 102 and floor 106 remain stationary, and pelvic movement gauges 108 (held in place by the user's “sit” bones) remain in place, then it would be safe to assume that the pelvis has not rotated around the hip sockets. Therefore, the gluteus and hamstring muscles have not contributed to the torso extension/flexion routine as performed in reference to FIGS. 11 c-11 d, 14 b-14 c.

After some practice, user 100 may try deliberately to extend torso 112 (FIG. 11 d) upwards (away from feet 122) too far as if trying to stand up too straight while pushing back into pelvic movement restraint 104. In such case, user 100 will observe that gauges 108 slide down and fall to floor 106. This shows that pelvic movement around the hip joints has occurred, which is what user 100 has to avoid.

User 100 may increase the resistance during a lumbar muscle exercise routine performed in accordance with the general principles of the present invention by folding his arms in front of the torso, as generally illustrated in FIGS. 12-13. Alternatively, the hands could be held above the head to increase the difficulty of the lumbar muscle strengthening exercise (not shown). All lumbar muscle strengthening exercises should be performed slowly and under full control with no fast movement of any kind. Greater exercise speed generally implies greater force, and greater force increases the likelihood of injury. Lumbar muscle exercise routines are supposed to strengthen the user's muscles to prevent or heal injury, not cause it.

FIGS. 15 a-15 b schematically illustrate a user 130 using lumbar muscle exercise system 131 (which is of the type generally shown and described hereinabove in reference to FIGS. 1-6 b) in conjunction with added resistance in the form of weights 132 held by user's hands 134. Other suitable forms of increased/added resistance may be utilized, as needed.

In FIG. 15 b, user 100 has extended torso 135 upward (away from feet 138) against gravity G, as generally shown by directional arrow 137, with the pelvic movement gauges of muscle exercise system 131 being firmly held in place against wall 133. In FIG. 15 a, torso 135 is shown flexed in the opposite direction (toward feet 138), as generally shown by directional arrow 139, with the pelvic movement gauges of muscle exercise system 131 still being held in place against wall 133 in accordance with the present invention.

FIGS. 16 a-16 h schematically depict a simplified physical model for use in understanding the general principles of the present invention. Specifically, the body of a user may be modeled as three pivotally coupled levers, whereby the head and torso are represented by a lever 200, the pelvis is represented by a lever 202, and the lower limbs are represented by a lever 204, as schematically shown in FIG. 16 a. Lever 200 is pivotally coupled to lever 202 via a fulcrum 206, while lever 204 is pivotally coupled to lever 202 via a fulcrum 208. Fulcrum 208 is disposed at a lower elevation relative to fulcrum 206 in accordance with anatomical requirements. Fulcrum 206 models the pivotal coupling between the lumbar portion of the spine and the pelvis of a user (FIG. 16 b). Fulcrum 208 models the hip joints of the user (FIG. 16 b).

When rotation occurs around fulcrums 206, 208 at each end of lever (pelvis) 202, the lumbar muscles are not effectively targeted (FIG. 16 c). To effectively target and strengthen the lumbar muscles, the user should lock the hip joint or fulcrum 208, as schematically illustrated in FIGS. 16 d-16 e. With a locked hip joint (fulcrum 208 being shown schematically with an overlapping crossed circle in FIGS. 16 d-16 g), the lower limbs (lever 204) and pelvis (lever 202) stay fixed. Thus, when the torso (lever 200) is pivotally lifted and lowered via fulcrum 206 relative to feet 205 of the user, as generally illustrated in FIGS. 16 d-16 e, the spinal extensor (lumbar) muscles are effectively targeted. There is no contribution from the gluteus and hamstring muscles of the user.

In FIGS. 16 f-16 g, the user's buttocks are schematically shown leaning against a vertical support member 210. Moreover, an obstacle 212 has been wedged between vertical support member 210 and the pelvis (lever 202) to keep the top of the pelvis (upper pelvic portion) from moving backwards (toward vertical support member 210) while the user pushes the bottom of the pelvis (lower pelvic portion) into vertical support member 210, thus immobilizing the pelvis. With the pelvis immobilized, the torso (lever 200) may be pivotally lifted and lowered via fulcrum 206 relative to feet 205 to effectively target the lumbar muscles. In FIG. 16 h, obstacle 212 functions, unfortunately, as another fulcrum due to the pelvis (lever 202) pushing back on obstacle 212, rather than back into vertical support member 210. This type of exercise routine would not effectively target the lumbar muscles of the user.

FIGS. 17-25 show in perspective alternative pelvic movement restraints for use in accordance with the present invention. Specifically, a pelvic movement restraint 300 with a substantially rigid tubular body 302 provided with a soft grip cover 304 is generally illustrated in FIG. 17. Rigid body 302 may be made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or other suitable material(s). FIG. 18 shows a generally wedge-shaped pelvic movement restraint 306 having a rounded corner. Pelvic movement restraint 306 may be made of firm material, such as foam or the like. FIG. 19 depicts a pelvic movement restraint 308 with a solid body 310 having a substantially semi-circular cross-section. Solid body 310 may be made of firm material. Solid body 310 is provided with a soft grip cover 312.

FIG. 20 depicts a pelvic movement restraint body 314 with a cross-section including an acute angle disposed opposite a circular arc. Pelvic movement restraint body 314 may be constructed from firm material. FIG. 21 shows a generally dumb-bell shaped pelvic movement restraint 316 made of firm material. Pelvic restraint 316 may be provided with a tacky surface texture. For example, spray-on rubber may be applied on the generally cylindrical surfaces surrounding handle 318. FIG. 22 depicts an alternative dumb-bell shaped pelvic movement restraint 320 made of firm material. Pelvic restraint 320 may be provided with a tacky surface texture. For example, spray-on rubber may be applied on the generally spherical surfaces surrounding handle 322.

FIG. 23 depicts a generally wedge-shaped pelvic movement restraint 324 made of firm material. Pelvic restraint 324 may be provided with a tacky surface texture. For example, spray-on rubber may be applied on its outer surface. FIG. 24 generally shows a pelvic movement restraint 326 with a cross-section including a quarter circle. Pelvic restraint 326 may be made of firm material and provided with a tacky surface texture. For example, spray-on rubber may be applied on its outer surface.

FIG. 25 generally illustrates a pelvic movement restraint 328 comprising two hinged surfaces 330, 332 adapted to open, but not close back again. FIG. 26 shows a pelvic movement restraint with a substantially tubular body 340 that is closed at each end and filled with air to provide comfort and support for the user. The outer surface of tubular body 340 should have enough friction to be used in accordance with the present invention. Alternatively, spray-on rubber may be applied on the outer surface of tubular body 340 to provide the desired friction.

The lumbar muscle exercise system of the present invention is portable, easy to construct from inexpensive materials, and affordable. It allows the user to accurately target and strengthen his/her lumbar muscles using a relatively inexpensive and portable pelvic movement restraint. It also provides the user with an effective exercise solution for this critical area.

The lumbar muscle exercise system of the present invention can provide the user with stronger, better working lumbar muscles relatively fast. That means more support, more flexibility and more protection for the spine, and a fitter, healthier lower back. In most cases, as low back strength increases, low back pain decreases, and the risk of injury to this vital area is reduced.

The lumbar muscle exercise system of the present invention is designed to produce comparable results to top-of-the-line lumbar strengthening machines at a small fraction of the price. The pelvic restraint is lightweight, compact and easy to handle. It is made to provide comfort and safety while also giving users the required degree of resistance and grip to make it truly effective.

The exemplary embodiments described hereinabove are merely illustrative of the general principles of the present invention. Various design modifications may be employed that would reside within the scope of the invention. Thus, by way of example, but not of limitation, alternative configurations may be utilized in accordance with the teachings herein. Accordingly, the drawings and description are illustrative and not meant to be a limitation thereof.

Moreover, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Thus, it is intended that the invention cover all embodiments and variations thereof as long as such embodiments and variations come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. 

1. A lumbar muscle exercise system, comprising: a first member adapted to support the lower pelvic portion of a user leaning against said first member; a second adjoining member adapted to support the feet of the user away from said first member with the lower limbs of the user being held substantially straight; and means for preventing the upper pelvic portion of the user from moving toward said first member while the lower pelvic portion is firmly pressed into said first member, said preventing means allowing the leaning user to extend the torso away from the feet against gravity as part of a targeted lumbar muscle exercise routine.
 2. A lumbar muscle exercise system, comprising: a first member adapted to support the lower pelvic portion of a user leaning against said first member; a second adjoining member adapted to support the feet of the user away from said first member with the lower limbs of the user being held substantially straight; means for preventing the upper pelvic portion of the user from moving toward said first member while the lower pelvic portion is firmly pressed into said first member, said preventing means allowing the leaning user to extend the torso away from the feet against gravity as part of a targeted lumbar muscle exercise routine; and means for indicating undesirable movement of the lower pelvic portion relative to said first member while performing the lumbar muscle exercise routine.
 3. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 1, wherein said preventing means includes at least one pelvic movement restraint nestled between said first member and the upper pelvic portion of the user.
 4. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 3, wherein said at least one pelvic movement restraint has a body with a substantially circular cross-section.
 5. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 3, wherein said at least one pelvic movement restraint has a body with a substantially triangular cross-section.
 6. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 3, wherein said at least one pelvic movement restraint has a body with a substantially semi-circular cross-section.
 7. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 3, wherein said at least one pelvic movement restraint has a substantially bullet-shaped body.
 8. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 7, wherein said bullet-shaped body is provided with a grip cover.
 9. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 8, wherein said grip cover extends over a substantial portion of the exterior surface of said bullet-shaped pelvic restraint body.
 10. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 8, wherein said grip cover is integrally formed on the exterior surface of said bullet-shaped pelvic restraint body.
 11. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 8, wherein said grip cover includes a soft resilient strip of material that is rolled onto a substantial portion of the exterior surface of said bullet-shaped pelvic restraint body.
 12. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 11, wherein said rolled strip of material is secured on the exterior surface of said bullet-shaped pelvic restraint body via adhesive.
 13. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 7, wherein one end of said bullet-shaped pelvic restraint body is cut away internally to create a cavity.
 14. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 13, wherein the interior surface of said cavity includes a substantially X-shaped body cut.
 15. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 14, wherein said X-shaped body cut is adapted to receive at least two pelvic movement gauges.
 16. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 15, wherein said at least two pelvic movement gauges are adapted for insertion and storage into the body of said bullet-shaped pelvic restraint.
 17. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 15, wherein each of said at least two pelvic movement gauges is shaped substantially as a glider plane without wings.
 18. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 17, wherein each pelvic movement gauge is constructed from a substantially flat strip of material.
 19. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 17, wherein each pelvic movement gauge is constructed from a substantially flat strip of plastic material.
 20. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 7, wherein said bullet-shaped pelvic restraint body is made of foam.
 21. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 8, wherein said grip cover is made of synthetic rubber.
 22. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 2, wherein said indicating means includes at least one pelvic movement gauge operatively sandwiched between the lower pelvic portion of the leaning user and said first support member.
 23. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 22, wherein two pelvic movement gauges are operatively disposed on opposite sides of the leaning user.
 24. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 23, wherein each of said oppositely disposed pelvic movement gauges is shaped substantially as a glider plane without wings.
 25. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 24, wherein each of said oppositely disposed pelvic movement gauges is constructed from a substantially flat strip of material.
 26. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 24, wherein each of said oppositely disposed pelvic movement gauges is constructed from a substantially flat strip of plastic material.
 27. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 22, wherein a portion of said at least one pelvic movement gauge sticks out the buttocks side of the user.
 28. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 23, wherein each of said oppositely disposed pelvic movement gauges is adapted to slide on said first support member when the lower pelvic portion is not firmly pressed into said first member.
 29. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 23, wherein sliding motion of at least one of said oppositely disposed pelvic movement gauges indicates improper performance of the lumbar muscle exercise routine.
 30. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 1, wherein the lower pelvic portion includes the ischium of the user, the ischium being also known as the “sit” bones of the user.
 31. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 1, wherein the upper pelvic portion includes the ilium and sacrum of the user.
 32. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 1, wherein said first support member is substantially vertical.
 33. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 1, wherein said second adjoining member is substantially horizontal.
 34. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 32, wherein said substantially vertical first support member is configured as a room wall.
 35. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 33, wherein said substantially horizontal second adjoining member is configured as a room floor.
 36. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 8, wherein said grip cover is textured.
 37. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 10, wherein said integral grip cover is textured.
 38. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 3, wherein said at least one pelvic movement restraint comprises two hinged surfaces adapted to open, but not close back.
 39. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 1, wherein said preventing means allows torso extension against gravity from a first position in which the torso is disposed at a substantially obtuse angle relative to said first member to a second position in which the torso is disposed at a substantially acute angle relative to said first member, said substantially acute and obtuse angles being defined above the hip level of the user.
 40. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 39, wherein the angular range of torso extension between said first and second positions is about 72°.
 41. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 39, wherein the gluteus and hamstring muscles of the leaning user do not contribute to torso extensions against gravity.
 42. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 41, wherein repeated torso extensions against gravity contribute to strengthening of the lumbar muscles of the user.
 43. A lumbar muscle exercise method, comprising the steps of: providing a first member adapted to support the lower pelvic portion of a user leaning against said first member; providing a second adjoining member adapted to support the feet of the user away from said first member with the lower limbs of the user being held substantially straight; and preventing the upper pelvic portion of the user from moving toward said first member while the lower pelvic portion is firmly pressed into said first member to allow the leaning user to extend the torso away from the feet against gravity as part of a targeted lumbar muscle exercise routine.
 44. A lumbar muscle exercise method, comprising the steps of: providing a first member adapted to support the lower pelvic portion of a user leaning against said first member; providing a second adjoining member adapted to support the feet of the user away from said first member with the lower limbs of the user being held substantially straight; preventing the upper pelvic portion of the user from moving toward said first member while the lower pelvic portion is firmly pressed into said first member to allow the leaning user to extend the torso away from the feet against gravity as part of a targeted lumbar muscle exercise routine; and indicating undesirable movement of the lower pelvic portion relative to said first member while performing the lumbar muscle exercise routine.
 45. The lumbar muscle exercise method of claim 43, further comprising the step of rotating the pelvis of the user away from said first support member as far as anatomically possible while keeping the lower limbs substantially firm relative to said second adjoining member.
 46. The lumbar muscle exercise method of claim 45, further comprising the step of bending the knees of the user enough to allow the user to press the ischium bones against said first support member.
 47. The lumbar muscle exercise method of claim 46, wherein the ischium bones of the user are firmly pressed against said first support member.
 48. The lumbar muscle exercise method of claim 47, wherein said preventing step includes the nestling of at least one pelvic movement restraint between said first support member and the upper pelvic portion of the user.
 49. The lumbar muscle exercise method of claim 48, wherein said nestled pelvic movement restraint prevents the pelvis from rotating back toward said first support member during performance of the lumbar muscle exercise routine.
 50. The lumbar muscle exercise method of claim 49, wherein said nestled pelvic movement restraint allows torso extension against gravity from a first position in which the torso is disposed at a substantially obtuse angle relative to said first member to a second position in which the torso is disposed at a substantially acute angle relative to said first member, said substantially acute and obtuse angles being defined above the hip level of the user.
 51. The lumbar muscle exercise method of claim 50, wherein the angular range of torso extension between said first and second positions is about 72°.
 52. The lumbar muscle exercise method of claim 50, wherein the gluteus and hamstring muscles of the leaning user do not contribute to torso extensions against gravity.
 53. The lumbar muscle exercise method of claim 52, wherein repeated torso extensions against gravity contribute to strengthening of the lumbar muscles of the user.
 54. The lumbar muscle exercise method of claim 44, wherein said indicating step includes frictionally coupling at least one pelvic movement gauge between the lower pelvic portion of the leaning user and said first support member.
 55. The lumbar muscle exercise method of claim 54, wherein two pelvic movement gauges are operatively disposed on opposite sides of the leaning user.
 56. The lumbar muscle exercise method of claim 55, wherein each of said oppositely disposed pelvic movement gauges is shaped substantially as a glider plane without wings.
 57. The lumbar muscle exercise method of claim 55, wherein each of said oppositely disposed pelvic movement gauges is constructed from a substantially flat strip of material.
 58. The lumbar muscle exercise method of claim 55, wherein each of said oppositely disposed pelvic movement gauges is constructed from a substantially flat strip of plastic material.
 59. The lumbar muscle exercise method of claim 54, wherein a portion of said at least one pelvic movement gauge sticks out the buttocks side of the user.
 60. The lumbar muscle exercise method of claim 55, wherein each of said oppositely disposed pelvic movement gauges is adapted to slide on said first support member when the lower pelvic portion is not firmly pressed into said first member.
 61. The lumbar muscle exercise method of claim 60, wherein sliding motion of at least one of said oppositely disposed pelvic movement gauges indicates improper performance of the lumbar muscle exercise routine.
 62. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 3, wherein said at least one pelvic movement restraint has a substantially tubular body that is closed at each end and filled with air.
 63. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 3, wherein said at least one pelvic movement restraint is substantially wedge-shaped with a rounded corner.
 64. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 3, wherein said at least one pelvic movement restraint has a substantially tubular body with a grip cover.
 65. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 3, wherein said nestled pelvic movement restraint allows the leaning user to flex the torso toward the feet as part of the targeted lumbar muscle exercise routine.
 66. The lumbar muscle exercise method of claim 48, wherein said nestled pelvic movement restraint allows the leaning user to flex the torso toward the feet as part of the targeted lumbar muscle exercise routine.
 67. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 3, wherein said at least one pelvic movement restraint has a body with a cross-section including an acute angle disposed opposite a circular arc.
 68. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 3, wherein said at least one pelvic movement restraint is substantially dumb-bell shaped.
 69. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 3, wherein said at least one pelvic movement restraint is substantially wedge-shaped.
 70. The lumbar muscle exercise system of claim 3, wherein said at least one pelvic movement restraint has a body with a cross-section including a quarter circle. 